English bull terrier.. What am I in for?

[MissyMoo321]

Looking after my cousins 10 month old female bullie for three weeks on wednesday, I already know they are more then a handful and have done some research online but would like some advice off of someone with hands on experience with the breed?

Hi Missy, I had a bullie - a truly wonderful friend. They are known to be stubborn and are generally considered to be one of the harder breeds to train ... because of the stubborness - indeed a very good friend's father (who has always had dogs) once said that they were, by far, the hardest dogs he had ever trained. Girlies are thought to be slightly easier than boys in this respect. They are very strong - you need to get them (and yourself) to a puppy training class in order to set ground rules. They can often suffer skin conditions and may need special dog shampoo's. They are incredibly loyal and have a very good reputation with children. If you don't like getting dirty looks from some others then this may not be the breed for you - I was once shouted at for having a "dangerous dog" despite the fact that my Dylan was on a lead and had just walked past the person shouting at me, completely ignoring them!! On average, they live 9 years (slightly shorter lifespan than many other breeds. And don't forget ... that very large, very thick skull, hides a very small brain .

However, I would have another bullie in a heartbeat. Absolutely love them.